Europe's Capital: Paris

Paris, the capital of France built on the banks of the Seine River, with its symbol the Eiffel Tower, the beautiful harmony of cream-colored buildings with long green trees, the world's most prestigious Louvre Museum, is one of the capitals that attract the most tourists. Also known as the City of Love, Paris truly makes you feel in love. Especially if it's autumn and the long trees in the city have begun to turn slightly orange… Paris being a cosmopolitan city offers much to do, and it is hardly possible to tour this city in just a few days. For this reason, based on my own travels, I have compiled the main places worth visiting in Paris for you. Eiffel Tower: The tower was built by Gustave Eiffel for an exhibition organized to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. Initially thought to be temporary, the tower did not gain much favor with the French people. However, over time it captured tourists' interest and became the symbol of the city. At the very top of the Eiffel Tower there is an observation deck from which you can look down at the city and admire its layout. If you want to go up to the observation deck, I recommend you definitely purchase tickets online. Otherwise you may have to wait in a long queue. Just as it is pleasant to view the city from the Eiffel Tower, it is equally enjoyable to lie in the green area Champ de Mars stretching in front of the tower and have a picnic while watching the Eiffel Tower…   Louvre Museum: The Louvre Museum is among the world's largest museums, where the world's most prestigious works are displayed. It is hardly possible to tour the Louvre in one day, as the museum contains 35,000 works. The structure of the museum is as noteworthy as the works within it. With its large doors, spacious courtyards and the simple elegance that pervades it, it is truly a very magnificent building…   Arc de Triomphe: Napoleon Bonaparte, upon returning victorious from the Battle of Austerlitz, promised his soldiers they would pass through a triumphal arch on their way home, and as the creator of Paris, he ordered Georges Eugene Haussmann to have the arch built. On the inner and outer surfaces of the arch are written the names of French victories and French generals.   Sacré-Coeur: A Roman Catholic Basilica located on Montmartre hill, one of the places with the most beautiful views of the city… The basilica's lawns are among the most visited spots by Parisians and tourists. Designed by Paul Abdi, Sacré-Coeur is one of Paris's most famous churches. The Magnificent Jesus Mosaic, the Equestrian Statues and the Jesus Statue within this truly magnificent structure are, in my opinion, among those that must be seen. [caption id="attachment_142712" align="aligncenter"] Sacré-Coeur[/caption] Montmartre: Paris consists of 20 districts, and the Montmartre district is one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city. In the past, Montmartre was where artists, dancers, and people excluded from society who wanted to pursue art would stay. Over time, this district transformed into a neighborhood where everyone goes for nightlife, where renowned artists reside in large numbers. In Montmartre, in the area called Painters' Hill, you can see the unique paintings created by street artists; you can watch them as they paint. Le Marais: When you visit tourist areas, you may not fully understand what it means to live like a Parisian. In fact, Paris might seem a bit cold, like merely a tourist city. You can erase this perception from your mind by also seeing the Marais district. The cafes where young people hang out, chic galleries, small boutiques… Parisians and people from different cultures mostly socialize in this neighborhood.   Notre-Dame Cathedral: The cathedral is located on the island called 'Ile de la Cite' on the Seine River. With its Gothic style, Notre-Dame has a somewhat different architecture from the rest of Paris and was actually built on the remains of another church. The church, which was once slated for demolition, gained its present-day fame through Victor Hugo's work 'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame'. I strongly recommend visiting this magnificent structure. [caption id="attachment_142714" align="aligncenter"] Notre-Dame Cathedral[/caption] Dining in Paris: When Paris is mentioned, croissants first come to mind. The city has many pastry shops that make croissants. While there are many options, one of my favorites is Stroher, particularly their almond croissants are excellent. Paris is known as one of the capitals of gastronomy. French onion soup, oysters, snails, foie gras, tartare, beef steaks with various sauces are among the most famous French dishes. I recommend Les Antiquaires as a restaurant where you can taste French flavors. Paris contains many elements to be experienced; although it may seem cold at first glance, it has a unique and vibrant city life within. Mixing with city life in Paris and strolling through streets where historic buildings are carefully preserved is truly very enjoyable.         Prepared by: Nilsu Kotil